Hadley gave a small nod, her face still pale, and her thoughts flew back to what had happened earlier, sending a shiver down her spine.

She managed to speak, her voice trembling. “Right after the director yelled cut, I suddenly felt like… someone was behind me. But when I turned, no one was there!”

Worried Eric might think she was imagining things, Hadley clung tighter to his hand. “I swear I’m not lying! It felt so real… I knew there was definitely something, but when I looked, there was nothing at all!”

The memory left her shaken to the core. Even now, speaking about it made her shudder all over again.

Eric pulled her closer, feeling the subtle trembling in her body. Goosebumps rose along her skin—she was still terrified.

He gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. “You’re safe with me. I promise.”

Looking at Tamara, he asked without hesitation, “Did you check everything out?”

“Yes.” Tamara nodded. This had been her responsibility from the start. As soon as Hadley fainted, she had called the bodyguards, and together they had combed through the entire set.

Their search turned up nothing.

A troubled look crossed Tamara’s face. “We didn’t see anything suspicious.”

“No one at all?” Hadley frowned, clearly upset. “But I know what I felt—I really saw something!”

“Don’t worry about that. I believe you. I mean it.” Eric’s arms tightened protectively around her, his voice full of conviction.

His words caught her off guard. “You really believe me?”

Doubt crept in as she thought it over. With no proof, she began to question herself. Maybe she really was just being too sensitive.

“Of course!” With a steady nod, Eric spoke gently. “If you sensed something, I trust there’s a reason. Don’t doubt yourself.”

He caught sight of her pale cheeks and added, “Let’s call it a day, alright? How about I take you home so you can get some real rest?”

L?t?st ?hpt?rs ιn glnovе.

“Okay.” Hadley agreed right away. “I’m done for the day anyway. We can go now.”

“Good.” Eric wanted her input. “Would you like me to carry you, or would you rather lean on me as we head out?”

“Leaning on you is fine.” Hadley managed a small smile. “I’m really feeling better now. I can walk.”

“Okay.” Eric accepted her answer without argument, helping her up while keeping a steady arm around her as they left the lounge together.

Instead of heading straight for Jewel Avenue, he drove her to a nearby hotel. He worried that going home in her current state might alarm Joy.

The suite had been reserved in advance by Eric—a quiet place for Hadley to rest during long filming days.

This time, though, she would actually use it for a full sleep.

Once inside, Eric led her to the bed and helped her settle in. He brushed her cheek, still cool to the touch. “Try to get some sleep.”

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